50 Year Reunion
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Reunion today! 6:00 pm. at the Holiday Inn. Walk-ins welcome. 30$ per person
Correction! The start time for the 60th reunion is 6:00 pm, not 7:00pm as previously stated.
Late and walk in registrations are available. There will be helpers at the front to assist you. The cost is $30 per person
Sandra Jean Fanyo was born in St. Cloud on December 15, 1946 to Wayne and Lucille Plachecki Fanyo. She was baptized at Salem Lutheran Church. She graduated from Tech High School in 1965 and from St. Cloud State College in 1969. Sandra spent her working career in Minneapolis and retired from a law firm in 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Thomas Tucker. Sandra died at Sterling Park Healthcare in Waite Park on August 15, 2025. Private burial of the urn will be at Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery in Watseka, IL.
Good luck on your next tour of duty, Gods speed as always.. Jack Strommen
Terry Lee Schmidt
Memorial Services will be Friday, June 6, 2025 at 6 PM at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in St. Cloud. Visitation will take place from 5-8 PM prior and following the service Friday at the funeral home.
Terry Lee Schmidt entered into eternal life on May 30, 2025. He was born December 9, 1946 to Leon and Grace Schmidt of St. Cloud MN. Terry attended Tech High School in St. Cloud and graduated in 1965. He enlisted in the Marines in 1966 and trained at Camp Pendelton, California. He was sent to Vietnam and served in the 5th Marine Division as a Motor Vehicle operator for two years from 1966-1968. He then returned home and served in the reserves.
Terry was a natural born salesman and had the “gift of gab”. He worked in a variety of sales jobs and in later years drove school bus. Terry’s favorite activity was camping during the summer with his wife Jann and the dogs. Terry was also the proud owner of a “Cuda” which he restored with the help of a good friend.
Terry is survived by his son Troy Schmidt and his wife Cindy; grandchildren, Christopher, Luke, and Brianna Schmidt; his wife Jann (Graue) Schmidt, and; his sisters Twyla Ethen, April Tidd, and Annette Stang.
He was preceded in death by his father Leon Schmidt; mother Grace Schmidt; and grandmother Theresa Mehr.
Memorials to the Wounded Warrior project preferred in lieu of flowers.
Shirley Ann Spier Lester passed away at her home Tuesday April 1, 2025, after a very brief battle with cancer surrounded by her family.
Shirley was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many. She had a way of bringing people in with a true generous soul and giving spirit. She was bold woman with strong integrity. She will be forever remembered for her sick sense of humor and ability to connect with people around her.
Shirley was born to Regina (Ott) Spier and Herman Spier in St Cloud, MN October 18, 1946. She attended Technical High School graduating in 1965.
Shirley joined the Army starting her career in Fort McClellan, AL. The Army took her all over the world including Seattle, Paris, Kentucky, Indiana, Germany, Texas and the pentagon. Shirley reached the rank of Sergeant First Class (E-7). Her passion in the military was recruiting and empowering women in the Women’s Army Corps. This resulted in her gathering many meritorious service commendations over the course of her career.
After retiring from the Army, Shirley settled in Mesa, AZ and started a career with the US Postal Service and retired as a supervisor at the Falcon Field office.
Many hobbies and activities filled her life: she was an avid crafter and seamstress, animal lover, garage sale devotee, and family historian. Ever curious about the world around her, she was also fond of hearing local gossip.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Rebecca Cochran (Jeromee Janicki), grand-daughter Tylee Janicki; friend Latoya Nichols; many nieces and nephews, and friends around the world. She will be missed by many whose lives she touched.
She was proceeded in death by her parents; sister Caroline Schefers; brothers Richard Womaski, Wendelin Schefers, Joseph Schefers, Jim Spier; and multiple angel babies who are waiting for her on the other side.
There will be a memorial service at Mariposa Gardens, 400 S Power Rd, Mesa AZ, Monday, April 14 at 11:00. Friends may leave memories, photos, and condolences on Shirley’s Facebook page. In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred to DAV East Valley Chapter 8, 655 Gilbert Road Mesa AZ 85203.
Michael's Obituary
Michael Clark, a proud veteran of the US army, passed away early the morning of March 22nd, 2025.
Mike was born on October 4th, 1946, in Latrobe Pennsylvania into a loving family. As a child, Mike and his three siblings moved from Pennsylvania to St. Cloud, Minnesota. Michael was a daydreamer. He was the leader of his boyhood pack, always finding trouble and mischief. He had a playful mindset and encouraged others to find humor, even in difficult times.
After graduating high school from St. Cloud High Tech, Mike enlisted in the army where he served for three years as a member of the 9th Infantry. As a combat medic during the Vietnam War, Mike always had the backs of his fellow soldiers. This dedication and loyalty to his unit remained with him all his life. After seeing combat for nine months, his army career was ended by a booby trap. A grenade severely injured the back of Mike’s leg and killed his brother-in-arms. Later in life, this injury persisted and caused the partial amputation of his leg.
When Mike returned from the war, he met his soulmate, Mary (Rieland). They wed on August 28th, 1971, after Mike’s red afro and dry sense of humor won her over. The dedication and loyalty Mike learned in Vietnam continued into his marriage. Together, they shared 53 wonderful years and raised two sons, Thomas and Patrick. Mike was a fierce protector of his family. He had deep, abiding love for his children. He taught them how to have courage and resilience when life knocked them down. Mike always had their back.
To support his family, Mike pursued higher education, taking classes during the day and working at the hospital at night. Mike received a bachelor’s degree from Macalester College and a master’s degree from Saint Cloud State.
Mike’s passion for adventure led him and his family to move to New Mexico. There, he became a media specialist at a school sharing his enthusiasm for history. Mike’s inner child came out when he started acting in plays. Eventually, he took on the role of director, which further honed his much-acclaimed storytelling skills.
Mike maintained the belief that history needs to be honored and preserved. He journaled for the majority of his life. He was an avid storyteller. He often shared stories about the dogs he and his family adopted over the years. They provided safe, loving homes for 13 dogs who had been traumatized from previous experiences. Mike was patient and kind, quickly earning the trust of the pack.
Mike loved reading. His favorite books were history or western. He loved watching movies. Later in life, Mike and family members frequently visited Missouri to the Jesse James Farm to participate in mock western shoot-outs. Mike enjoyed walking and hiking. He loved chocolate milk and orange juice. He had the biggest sweet tooth and always had chocolate close by.
One of Mike’s proudest achievements was founding the VVA Chapter 470 Honor Guard. Performing services for fallen soldiers was his honor. It was his mission to support veterans and their families.
Mike’s pride was in his family. As a grandpa, Mike watched Scooby-Doo movies, marshalled many sword fights, and read so many bedtime stories. His legacy will live on in his six grandkids.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Marion Clark. He is survived by his wife, Mary; his sons, Tom (Kari), Pat (Tiffany); his grandchildren, Ethan, Elizabeth, Sophia, Sam, Olivia, and Henry; and his siblings, Vicki Murata, Peg Gillean, and Dave (Judy) Clark.
A celebration of Mike’s life will take place on Friday, April 4th, at Anoka Covenant Church, 752 Grant St, Anoka, MN. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Military honors will be rendered following the service. All are invited to join the family for lunch after the honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the following organizations: Anoka County Historical Society, Anoka County Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 470, Animal Humane Society, and Ruff Start Rescue.
Mike will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his devotion to his country, and his lifelong commitment to service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In Mike’s memory, please take a moment to thank a veteran for their service. A simple act of gratitude can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have given so much for our country.
John Faulk Obituary
John's heavenly family includes wife Linda, son Aaron, father Forrest, mother Pearl, and nephew Eric. A Midwest boy, John grew up in Minneapolis Minnesota and Aberdeen South Dakota, later attending high school at St. Cloud Technical High School excelling in academics and all sports including as an all-star baseball player, holding school record for Pole Vault, Captain of Track Team and serving on Student Body Committees. He was voted "Mr. Pep" for most team spirit. He earned the Eagle Award in scouting and served as President of the Explorer Post with a passion as a Conservationist. John's faith was very important to him from a young age, and his Pastor affirmed God's gifts in his life writing a letter of encouragement to consider the ministry.
At the age of 19, following in his father's footsteps who was a Captain in the Navy, John enlisted in the Navy, passed all the tests, and was sworn in by his father as a future flight officer AVROC eventually entering and graduating from the Aviation Officer Candidate School in Pensacola Florida. John was known as "Flash" in Battalion Competition due to speed in competition, and competed in Flight Athletic teams incl. Rugby, Cross Country, and Football.
He then set his sights on pursuing his true passion and calling in Special Education, returning to California, achieving his academic degrees at Cal State Fullerton and later an Administrative Degree from Cal State Long Beach. John began teaching in 1975 at Esperanza School in Mission Viejo in the 3–5-year-olds classroom with disabilities. In 1982, John led the way (even making the papers) successfully mainstreaming the first class of 5-8-year-old students with disabilities in the district onto a regular campus at Cordillera Elementary School. John also served as an educator in the Saddleback College Adult Education program for students with special needs in Physical Education, and in the classroom. He served in leadership in the Special Olympics for decades, overseeing the Orange County regional program & providing training as a swim coach among other roles. Fully retiring in 2020 after serving for nearly 46 years, John was a role model and pillar in the Special Education community consistently reflecting the highest standards of advocacy for what others can do, not what they can't. Also, a dedicated community member on the playing field, John's commitment to grow young athletes was witnessed in his coaching skills, building a strong work ethic in sports such as Softball, Little League, AYSO, and Club Soccer. He also was a dedicated leader serving as President of Irvine Soccer Association & V.P. of Coast Soccer League.
Of all his accomplishments, John was proudest of his close loving family. John believed one of God's most special blessings was sharing time with family, friends and his "fur babies" at home and in the great outdoors, whether deep sea or fly fishing, snow skiing, road trips, and annual family trips. Family time was truly his greatest source of fulfillment, meaning and joy.
A man of faith, John viewed life as a gift from God to be celebrated!
Ted Dingmann Obituary
Ted Dingmann, age 77 of Foley passed away March 5, 2025 at his home. Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, March, 15 2025 at St. John's Catholic Church in Foley. Rev. Michael Wolfbauer will officiate and burial with full military honors will take place at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Little Falls. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 pm, Friday, March 14, 2025 at St. John's Catholic Church and will continue from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the church on Saturday. Service with Dignity provided by the Foley Funeral Home.
Theodore Earl Dingmann was born June 29, 1947 in St. Cloud, Minnesota to Claude and (Marcella) Dingmann Sr. He graduated from Tech High School, class of 1965. He enlisted in The US Army and served honorably in the Vietnam War from 1966-1967 in the 10th Cavalry, 4th Infantry armored tank division. He worked as a police officer for the Foley Police Department for 32 years, 28 years as Police Chief, retiring in 2001. He was a member of the Foley Fire Department for 30 years, serving as Fire Chief for 10 years. Ted also worked as a Bailiff for the Benton County Sheriff's Department for 14 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and loved spending time at his cabin, Moose Ridge, in Orr, Minnesota. He could be seen most days at Brenny Oil Company having a cup of coffee and visiting with friends. He was a wonderful father and grandfather. Ted leaves behind a life of service to his country and community. Memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers.
He is survived by his wife, Shirley, Foley and children: Annette (Jeff) Vassar, Cheyenne, WY.; Scott (Deanna), Foley; Jeff (Tiffaney), Buckman; Jay (Amy), Foley, brother, Claude Jr. (Thressa); Teresa Dingmann; Susan Spier; MaryJo (Peter) Forrest, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Mariah Vassar and a sister, Linda Dingmann.
Ray, was a special person which I was lucky enough to have in several classes and we were friends. Ray alway wore a great smile and a great attitude.. Thanks Ray for sharing some time with us.
Raymond Dennis Deuermeyer
Lauren (Moran) Rice
76, died January 8, 2025. Arrangements provided by Daniel Funeral Home, Clearwater. Services on Jan 16, 11:00am at St. Luke's C.C., Clearwater. Mount Hope Cemetery, Clearwater.
Allen Tramm Obituary
Al graduated from St Cloud Tech High School in 1965 and St. Cloud Technical College in 1970. He served in the United States Army from January 24, 1966, to January 23, 1969, which included service in country Vietnam. He was recognized with Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Metal, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and Expert Rifle.
Al worked for 35 years for Sentinel Printing Company at the St. John's University Campus. As a printer, he was dedicated to serving the St. John's community above and beyond with going in after hours to provide for their needs.
Al was a member of Peace Lutheran church and The American Legion.
Al loved the outdoors which included hunting and fishing. Deer camp was a special time with friends and family. Al enjoyed fishing for sunfish both summer and winter, including during March black ice. August would bring the annual canoe trip down the crow wing river as a special time with good friends. Al was able to fix almost anything which included building our home. Al spent many hours helping at the St. Cloud standdown assisting veterans in need and making memories with friends. He was always willing to help a stranger in need, towing vehicles with his truck. He was a quiet man with a huge heart and a stable rock for those close to him. He loved his family and was devoted to his wife.
Survivors include his wife Norma Tramm, Son Philip (Sabrina) Tramm, Daughter Linda (JT) Thompson, their children Evan Thompson and Ainsley Thompson, Son Tim (Becky) Tramm. Brother John Tramm, Brother-In- Law Jim Billig, Sister-In- Law Cindy Goepferd, Brother-In-Law Wayne (Cathy) Goepferd, Heather (Dale) Reek and Grandchildren Veronica and Gavin Reek. Also, many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by Parents Carlton and Leila Tramm, Father/Mother-In -Law Harold and Marge Goepferd, Sister Barb Billig. Aunts and uncles Del (Sadie) Tramm, Donaver Tramm, Louise (Jack) LaBonte and Lucile (Johnny) Lieder.
Visitations and Service will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, Cold Spring, MN. Visitation will be on Friday January 3rd from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm and the funeral service on Saturday January 4th at 2:00 PM. Visitation starts at 1:00 on Saturday January 4th. Services will be live-streamed thru the churches website/facebook.